How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Hurricane Season

The Grand Strand sits in the path of tropical weather every year. A little preparation protects your equipment and your wallet.

Before the storm

• Clear debris and loose items from around the outdoor unit.
• Make sure the unit is secured and the area is free of objects that could become projectiles.
• Ask us about a surge protector for the outdoor unit and air handler.
• If flooding is expected, know where your system's disconnect and breaker are.
• Photograph your equipment for your records.

During the storm

If you lose power, turn the thermostat off so the system does not restart suddenly when power returns. Keep people clear of the outdoor unit.

After the storm

• Do not run a system that was submerged or flooded. Electrical components may be damaged.
• Check the outdoor unit for debris and damage.
• After power returns, give the system a few minutes before restarting it to protect the compressor.
• If anything looks wrong, call for an inspection before running the system.

Staying ahead of problems

Maintenance before peak season finds weak parts before storms and heat waves stress them.